Michigan House Bill HB4083

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Report Pass: 3/23/23

Caption

Environmental protection: hazardous products; use of perchloroethylene in dry cleaning solvents; prohibit. Amends 1994 PA 451 (MCL 324.101 - 324.90106) by adding subpt. 3 to pt. 147.

Impact

The implementation of HB 4083 will significantly impact the dry cleaning industry in Michigan, which has heavily relied on perchloroethylene due to its efficiency as a cleaning solvent. The bill establishes the creation of a dedicated fund to assist dry cleaning facilities in transitioning to safer alternatives. Financial resources will be allocated for grants and awareness programs to guide businesses in adopting new cleaning processes and disposing of existing perchloroethylene stocks safely. This approach is designed to smooth the transition and lessen the economic burden on small business owners.

Summary

House Bill 4083 seeks to amend the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by prohibiting the use of the solvent perchloroethylene in dry cleaning operations. The bill sets forth a timeline where manufacturing of this solvent will be banned starting December 1, 2027, followed by a ban on sales beginning June 1, 2028, and finally, a complete prohibition on its use by December 1, 2028. This legislation aims to mitigate the environmental and health risks associated with perchloroethylene, which is recognized as a potential carcinogen and has been linked to various health issues for workers and the general public.

Contention

While the bill is positioned as a public health necessity, it has stirred debate among stakeholders. Proponents argue for the environmental benefits and the public health improvements that will arise from eliminating such hazardous substances, while opponents of the bill raise concerns about the economic impacts on local businesses and the potential costs associated with switching to alternative products. Opponents fear that without adequate support, the cost of compliance could drive some dry cleaners out of business, which would reduce competition and service options for consumers in the state.